Explore cognitive load to design better interfaces and experiences

Cognitive load is the amount of mental work necessary to execute a task. Users become overwhelmed when you throw too much information on them or give them too many jobs to complete at once.

As designers, we should study different types of cognitive load to help users digest information in small comprehensive chunks.

Intrinsic cognitive load

Intrinsic cognitive load refers to the mental effort to process naturally complex information. The nature of the task determines this type of cognitive load and cannot be changed by the designer. It is essential to remember that some tasks, by their very nature, are more complex than others.

For example, learning a new language or solving a complex mathematical problem requires a high intrinsic cognitive load.

We can help users manage the intrinsic cognitive load by breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This can involve presenting information in a logical sequence or providing users with clear instructions to follow. By reducing the data users must process at once, designers can help users manage their cognitive load more effectively.

External cognitive load

External cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to process information that is imposed by the design of a task or interface. This can include confusing layouts, poorly organized information, or unnecessary animations.

By minimizing external cognitive load, designers can make tasks and interfaces more intuitive and easier to use.

One way to reduce external cognitive load is to simplify the design of an interface. This can involve reducing visual clutter or using clear, concise language to convey information.

Another way to minimize external cognitive load is to make sure that the layout of an interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. By designing interfaces that are easy to use and understand, designers can help users manage their cognitive load more effectively.

Relevant cognitive load

Relevant cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to process information in a way that supports learning and understanding. This type of cognitive load is beneficial because it can help users learn and retain information more effectively. For example, presenting information in a way that encourages users to make connections between concepts can increase relevant cognitive load.

Designers can increase the relevant cognitive load by designing interactive and engaging interfaces. This can involve using animations or other visual elements to reinforce critical concepts or provide users with opportunities to practice new skills. Designers can help users manage their cognitive load more effectively by designing interfaces that encourage active engagement and participation.

In summary, we should reduce unnecessary cognitive load while increasing relevant cognitive load. By understanding the different types of cognitive load, designers can create intuitive, easy-to-use interfaces and support effective learning and understanding.

By keeping the cognitive load in mind throughout the design process, we can create interfaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly.

Further reading

The UX of LEGO Interface Panels

LEGO interface panels are beautiful, iconic, and great for learning interface design basics. I bought 52 of them from BrickLink to explore the design, layout and organisation of complex interfaces.

Interaction Magic logoGeorge Cave

Design Principles to Support Better Decision Making

Product design principles (or, in short, design principles) are value statements that frame design decisions and support consistency in decision making across teams working on the same product or service.

Nielsen Norman GroupBruce Tognazzini

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